hubergroup Print Solutions has expanded its portfolio with Gecko CyclOne, a nitrocellulose-free (NC-free) liquid ink system for frontal, reverse, and lamination printing. The ink range is based on a proprietary polyurethane technology and is designed to help printers meet the requirements of recyclable packaging without compromising on print quality or efficiency. The launch supports hubergroup’s stated guiding principle of ‛shaping next-generation flexibles’ and adds to its portfolio of recyclable packaging solutions.

Bespoke PU technology for print results

For decades, nitrocellulose was regarded as the standard binder for high-quality solvent-based printing applications due to its properties. However, with increasing demands on the recyclability of packaging and stricter regulatory requirements, demand for sustainable alternatives has grown.

With Gecko CyclOne, hubergroup is expanding its NC-free portfolio with what the company describes as a high-performance solution that meets these requirements. The company said the product line, developed using its in-house polyurethane technology and formulation experience, delivers mechanical and optical properties comparable to conventional NC-based systems in terms of print quality and performance.

“Our in-house polyurethane expertise enables us to develop raw materials specifically for our ink systems, thereby delivering the performance that converters expect from high-quality solvent-based printing,” said Carsten Zölzer, chief commercial officer, Print Solutions at hubergroup. “At the same time, Gecko CyclOne offers improved recyclability compared to conventional NC- or PVC-based ink systems, thereby supporting the industry’s drive towards circular packaging solutions.”

Modularity aimed at operational efficiency

The system is built around a modular concept in which pigment concentrates can be adapted for frontal, reverse, and lamination printing through the use of special additives. According to hubergroup, this approach simplifies stock management while offering flexibility, allowing print shops to adapt to changing production requirements.

The PU-based system is suitable for flexographic and gravure printing, with or without lamination, and is also available for mono-solvent applications. The product range includes white, CMYK process colors, varnishes, and primers, providing printers with the components for printing on flexible packaging from a single source.

A transition to an NC-free future

hubergroup said PU-based printing systems are similar in application to established NC-based processes, making the switch straightforward. “Although the switch requires some adjustments, it does not entail any fundamental changes to existing processes,” said Lutz Frischmann, product director for flexible packaging at hubergroup. The company said it supports customers throughout the transition process.

Frischmann added, “With Gecko CyclOne, we are helping our customers to successfully shape the transition towards a more circular packaging industry. We are not simply launching yet another ink range; rather, we are offering a holistic solution combining innovative chemistry, practical application expertise, and comprehensive technical support. NC-free is no longer just an option – it is the future of the industry.”

The launch of Gecko CyclOne adds to hubergroup’s existing NC-free offerings, Gecko Platinum and Gecko Xtreme White. The company launched some of its first PU-based solutions in 2015 and has since continued development of PU-based printing inks for the packaging industry.